How does Texas A&M's study link night shifts to breast cancer?

The study found that disrupted circadian rhythms from night shifts or jet lag can alter breast tissue and weaken immunity, leading to more aggressive breast cancer.

What are circadian disruptions and how do they affect cancer?

Circadian disruptions involve irregular sleep-wake cycles, which can impair hormone release, tissue repair, and immune function, creating an environment conducive to cancer growth.

Can sleep schedule changes impact breast cancer aggression?

Yes, research indicates that disrupted sleep schedules can lead to faster tumor growth and increased metastasis in models with aggressive breast cancer.

Home / Health / Night Shift Linked to Aggressive Breast Cancer

Night Shift Linked to Aggressive Breast Cancer

26 Dec

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Summary

Irregular sleep schedules may increase aggressive breast cancer risk.
Circadian disruptions alter mammary glands and weaken immunity.
Disrupted clocks accelerate cancer growth and spread in models.

Night Shift Linked to Aggressive Breast Cancer

Working the night shift or frequently crossing time zones can disrupt a woman's natural sleep cycle, potentially increasing her risk for aggressive breast cancer. Researchers have found that these circadian disruptions can alter the structure of mammary glands and weaken the body's immune defenses, thereby promoting cancer development.

The study utilized genetically engineered models, revealing that those with disrupted internal clocks developed aggressive breast cancer earlier than models on a regular day-night schedule. Tumors in the disrupted group were more aggressive and showed a greater tendency to spread, indicating poorer outcomes.

Beyond accelerating tumor growth, the disruption suppressed immune surveillance and changed the makeup of healthy breast tissue, making it more susceptible. These findings highlight the critical role of circadian rhythms in maintaining bodily defenses and suggest new avenues for counteracting cancer's progression.